Constructing Preferences from Memory

The Construction of Preference, Lichtenstein, S. & Slovic, P., (eds.), pp. 397-410, New York, NY, Cambridge University Press, 2006

26 Pages Posted: 17 Nov 2008 Last revised: 31 Aug 2011

See all articles by Elke U. Weber

Elke U. Weber

Princeton University - Department of Psychology

Eric J. Johnson

Columbia University - Columbia Business School, Marketing

Date Written: 2006

Abstract

Our memories define who we are and what we do. Aside from a few preferences hardwired by evolution, they also define what we like and how we choose. In this chapter, we argue that our view of preference changes if conceptualized explicitly as the product of memory representations and memory processes. We draw on insights about the functions and operations of memory provided by cognitive psychology and social cognition to show that memory plays a crucial role in preference and choice. We examine memory processes in preference and choice at a more "micro" and process-oriented level than previous investigations into the role of memory processes, but at a level that is cognitive and functional, rather than computational. We suggest that a consideration of properties of memory representation and retrieval may provide a unifying explanatory framework for some seemingly disparate preference phenomena.

Suggested Citation

Weber, Elke U. and Johnson, Eric J., Constructing Preferences from Memory (2006). The Construction of Preference, Lichtenstein, S. & Slovic, P., (eds.), pp. 397-410, New York, NY, Cambridge University Press, 2006, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1301075 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1301075

Elke U. Weber (Contact Author)

Princeton University - Department of Psychology

Green Hall
Princeton, NJ 08540
United States

Eric J. Johnson

Columbia University - Columbia Business School, Marketing ( email )

New York, NY 10027
United States